Central Bedfordshire Council news and press releases

Be the voice of your community - become a councillor

11 January 2019

With local elections planned for 2 May 2019, we're inviting residents to consider standing as local councillors. If you are passionate, proactive and want to make a difference, then it could be for you.

There is a range of information and advice available. We've produced a Becoming a Central Bedfordshire Councillor (PDF 914.2KB) guide which, amongst other things, explains in detail who is eligible to stand, the role of a councillor and explains the steps involved to become a candidate.

Keen to encourage a diverse range of candidates from a cross-section of the community to this form of public service, the booklet explains that councillors don’t have to be highly educated or have a profession. Skills gained through raising a family, caring for a sick or disabled relative, volunteering or being active in faith or community groups can be just as valuable.

An informal event to give potential candidates the opportunity to hear first-hand from councillors and officers about what’s involved and to chat with them about their experience, is planned for 14 January at 6pm in our Priory House offices in Chicksands.

Councillor Mrs Fiona Chapman MBE, Chairman of the Council said: "Being a local councillor is one of the most rewarding things you can do; helping make a difference to individuals and your wider local community. It can be daunting but there's lots of support available so I would encourage anyone who is considering it to come along to the event to find out more."